Longevity and Cognitive Health Among a Group of Canadian Centenarians

The purpose of this book is to explore practical information and insights from a group of Canadian centenarians to assist health care professionals and researchers who administer care to the oldest of adults, known as "Centenarians." A centenarian is a person who lives to or beyond 100 years of age. From a phenomenological approach, this book is important as few studies on cognitive health among centenarians have included in-depth and detailed descriptions from the individuals themselves. Physical and mental health challenges increase with advancing age and the oldest individuals may be prone to several risk factors such as dementia, disability and dependency. However, research has also suggested that centenarians may be resistant to cognitive decline and have survival advantages.

Theoretical perspectives, together with current literature will assist in our understanding of cognition and longevity among centenarians. In addition, therapeutic interventions will be explored to address the needs and challenges centenarians face in their daily lives. The Phenomenological approach will include in-depth face-to-face interviews to assess factors that may have a relationship to longevity and cognitive health.

The goal was to collect data from approximately 10 individuals together with family members. The interview questionnaire focused on demographic information, physical functioning and mental health, cognitive health, living arrangements, and family and social involvement. The administration of the Mini Mental State Exam (MMSE) was used as an additional source when appropriate. Analyses of the information was based on the Phenomenological approach (Creswell, 1998), to explore the essence and meaning of the statements. An informed consent was given to each of the participants and/or to a family member. The interviews were conducted in various living situations, such as home environments, assisted living and skilled nursing facilities in Canada. Implications for clinical practice and research was addressed. This book will be particularly useful for family caregivers, Social Workers, Nurses, other health care practitioners and students who are involved in undergraduate, graduate studies and research in Gerontology and or clinical practice.